Marvin Sapp: Gospel Music is Here To Stay

I have been singing gospel music since I was four years old. My first major experience was with Walter Hawkins and the Hawkins family back in the early 70’s. They introduced me to a whole new style of gospel music. Not only the Hawkins family; but Andrae Crouch and Rance Allen, just to name a few, shaped the sound that I produce today. This is the sound and testimony that has touched the lives of millions throughout the world.

Gospel music is a thread that ties today’s musical stylings to our history. Whether looking at pop music, hip-hop or R&B, it’s rare to find an artist who hasn’t been touched or affected by the power and soul of gospel music. In fact, many of today’s popular artists such as Whitney Houston, John Legend, and Katy Perry started their careers in the church choir.

He also touches on the growth of the gospel industry.

Meanwhile, gospel artists are more popular than ever. The industry is growing. I was blessed to have my song “Here I Am” reach a new record for a gospel single when it hit number two on the Billboard Top 200 last year. Artists like Israel Houghton and Mary Mary are creating their own spin on the genre and, as a result, are attracting an entirely new audience. Mainstays like the legendary CeCe Winans continue to inspire us with their God-given talent and commitment to the music.

While the industry grows, the gospel church choir continues to have a large presence in our society. That’s why it has been such a pleasure to be a part of Verizon’s How Sweet the Sound, the most prestigious gospel music event in the country.